Locations Everything you need to look for in finding the perfect location.

So You’ve found the perfect Location, but is it really perfect. When looking for locations there are several things that you will need to factor in to help ensure a smooth filming experience. below is a checklist, (and by no means an exhaustive one) of some of things you will need to account for when looking at the feasibility of locations.

To be clear I am not saying you should ignore the location just because it dosen’t tick off everything on your checklist. the foremost thought should be “ does this location serve the story ?”

The Location Checklist:

Does it Serve the story?: The most important questions. does the location serve the story? if not Move on, if yes, see below.

Access to the Location: How are you going to get to the location, how far away are the nearest public transport stops? will you need a shuttle to ferry people back and fourth. Will you need special vehicles such as helicopters to fly people in? is the terrain to the location challenging? are there gates or security doors that close behind you so people might get trapped not knowing the code. are there any time restrictions on when crew can arrive and leave set? is your crew the only people that have access to the location on those days?

Facilities: Does the location have any facilities already installed these can include, toilets, and showers, additional rooms for equipment storage, parking, wifi etc.. All fairly crucial in helping to enable a smooth work flow. for example a location in the woods wont have toilet facilities so then you will need to look at getting portable toilets to the location, or near to the location in a safe area close to the actually filming location usually called a unit base. similarly if out in the wild you may need to account for providing Trailers for actors to have hair and make up done, costume and an area where cast and crew can shelter if the weather turns bad.

Parking:

Is there parking at the location, and is there enough of it for all cast and crew? for location in the centre of a city for example parking might be hard to come by so you may have to arrange with the council to secure parking permits, or look into private car parks nearby. If parking is limited, consider arranging a shuttle service from a designated parking area to the location.

Permits & Permissions:

If your chosen location is publicly owned, such as a council park, street, or government building, you may need to apply for a permit. Most councils have a dedicated film office that handles these requests, and approval times can vary, so it's best to start the process early.

For small-scale productions, many councils allow filming without a permit if you have five or fewer cast and crew members and are only using handheld equipment. However, this varies by location, so always check with the relevant authorities to avoid issues on the day of filming.

Sound Considerations:

Is the location quiet enough for dialogue-heavy scenes? If it's near a busy road, under a flight path, or subject to frequent public noise, sound recording may be challenging. Will you need to arrange for a controlled environment, or will you require additional post-production work to clean up background noise?

Power & Lighting:

Does the location have accessible power sources, or will you need to bring your own generators? This is particularly important for locations without mains electricity. Similarly, consider the natural lighting conditions—will you be relying on available daylight, or will additional lighting rigs be necessary?

Space & Green Room Considerations:

Ensure that the location has enough space to comfortably accommodate your cast, crew, and equipment. Cramped conditions can slow down production and create unnecessary stress. Additionally, having a designated green room space is crucial for actors to prepare, rest, and change costumes. If the location lacks indoor facilities, consider setting up temporary structures, such as tents or trailers, to provide a comfortable space for your team.

Weather & Environmental Factors:

If filming outdoors, what is the typical weather like at that time of year? Will you need contingency plans for rain or extreme temperatures? Also, check for potential environmental hazards—muddy ground, strong winds, or even local wildlife that might disrupt filming.

Waste Disposal:

Proper waste management is essential for keeping your location clean and respecting the environment. Ensure that you have designated bins for general waste, recycling, and any hazardous materials. If your shoot generates a significant amount of waste, consider hiring a waste disposal service or arranging with the location owner for proper cleanup procedures. Leaving a location in pristine condition will help maintain good relationships with property owners and local councils, making future shoots easier to coordinate.

Legal & Insurance Considerations:

Check if your production requires liability insurance for the location. Many councils and private property owners will request proof of coverage before allowing filming. Ensure you have the necessary documentation in place to protect yourself and your crew.

Backup Plan:

No matter how perfect a location may seem, things can change unexpectedly. Always have a backup plan in case of last-minute cancellations, bad weather, or other unforeseen circumstances. Having a secondary location lined up can save your production from costly delays.

In Conclusion:

Finding the right location is more than just about aesthetics—it’s about practicality and logistics. By thoroughly considering access, facilities, permits, sound, power, space, and contingency plans, you’ll set your production up for a smoother and more efficient shoot. Remember, preparation is key to ensuring that the location truly serves the story without unnecessary complications.